My first round with the StormForce PX8 rain jacket really put ProQuip’s claims to the test as the weather could only be described as biblical.
While it didn't make for the most enjoyable few hours on the golf course, it was a great opportunity for the StormForce PX8 to show what it was made of and, I'm happy to report, that it passed the examination with flying colours.
In all honesty, it impressed me before it was forced into action on the course, too. The styling really suited my eye and the subtle colour contrasts and panelling really impressed me. When you pick it up you immediately notice how lightweight the jacket, which is ideal for if you have limited space in your golf bag.
What's more, it also demonstrates a tangible resistance to creasing, which is a great quality for a rain jacket to possess as, depending on where you live, it’s often confined to your golf bag for hours on end. Also, I thought that the StormForce PX8 creates a positive impression straight away which, in-turn, makes you confident in its performance when needed on the course. It doesn’t disappoint.
Along with the look and feel, I was seriously impressed with the freedom of movement this waterproof jacket afforded me, thanks largely to the four-way stretch, something which you see on most of the best golf rain jackets. It didn’t inhibit or snag and, I’d go as far as to say, I can’t recall swinging with such freedom in any other waterproof garment. It’s whisper quiet, too – an important complementary factor.
That said, freedom of movement is no good if you’re still getting wet during a deluge. Happily, the StormForce PX8 excels in the water-resistance category. ProQuip is so confident in its technology that the jacket comes with a lifetime waterproof guarantee and, handily, it is also very good at regulating temperature – I don’t remember feeling clammy at any point, which is often the case with waterproof clothing. I wouldn’t say it’s the most warming of outer layers, but that’s not a waterproof’s main job.
The jacket boasts some other nice touches, too. The fine mesh lining adds to the comfort, the side adjustor tabs help you get a perfect fit, the waterproof zips deliver on that promise and the cushioned collar doesn’t irritate the underside of the chin, which I’ve experienced with other items of clothing.
Overall, the StormForce PX8 rain jacket is hard to fault, especially when you consider its modest price point relative to other models in the same sector of the market. It would be a welcome addition to anyone’s golf apparel arsenal.
